Baseboard Molding

You should receive copies of everything as part of a file containing inspection reports and permit applications, as well as the permits themselves. This should be a question you ask before you hire a contractor.

If you install carpeting in an area that is high in traffic, it is pointless. Just a few days of a continuous rainstorm can stain your carpet with dirt and mud, making it look older than other carpeting that doesn't receive much foot traffic. It will need to be replaced sooner, too. Ceramic tile or vinyl flooring are both great, durable options for these areas.

Make sure to be safe when working on a heavy project. That means to wear a hardhat and safety glasses, as always, but also consider a back brace to protect your spine and back muscles when lifting heavier objects.

Get an electrician to install outlets inside cabinets located near your appliances. It will make for an easy way to plug in your microwave without having a cord that is visible. This will prevent your kitchen from becoming an eyesore.

The better your home's curb appeal is, the more money you can get out of it when it sells. This extra cost, though, should not be considered an investment, but more of a charge for your viewing pleasure. Potential buyers may not care for the changes you make and may not want to pay more money for your home.

Do not allow contractors to start the work prior to signing a contract. If you can, have a lawyer review the contract before moving forward. Every detail, timelines, specific charges and guarantees should be included and easy to understand.

Taking the time to cover surfaces that you want to protect from paint or fallout from demolition is an important step that is definitely worth the effort. When you start painting, no matter how hard you try to keep it neat, there will inevitably be splatters that will land on other surfaces around the area that you're painting. Also, when you're doing any demolition, there will pieces flying around that can scratch and damage the surrounding surfaces. You should also cover walls if debris is going to be flying around when you whack out a cabinet. All fixtures should also be covered if you are painting.